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Have you ever wondered what single animal would be your desert island food choice for survival? For our host, Chef Antonio, it's the pig—hands down. The remarkable versatility of pork and its countless preparation methods make it the ultimate survival protein, and this episode dives deep into why.

We're joined by the President of the Indiana Pork Producers, who offers a fascinating glimpse into modern pig farming. With 3,000 family farms across Indiana, the state plays a significant role in America's pork industry, even sending one in every four US-raised pigs to international markets. These global exports often face stricter standards than domestic sales, pushing farmers to maintain exceptional quality and sustainability practices.

The conversation dispels common misconceptions about industrial farming by highlighting the meticulous care given to pigs throughout their development. From employing specialized nutritionists who formulate 8-10 different feed rations for various growth stages to the "We Care" principle guiding humane treatment, today's pig farmers are combining traditional agricultural values with modern science. Tharp's own farm employs half a dozen people dedicated solely to animal care, underscoring that their livelihood depends directly on the quality of their stewardship.

What truly sets pork apart is its culinary versatility. Whether it's luxurious smoked pork belly, mouthwatering bacon, or tender pork butt, the possibilities seem endless. We explore how the World Food Championships showcased chefs transforming simple cuts into extraordinary dishes, proving that "a pork belly is not a pork belly everywhere—it's all in how it's prepared." This creative partnership between farmers who raise quality pork and chefs who prepare it creates a virtuous cycle of innovation and appreciation.

Ready to embrace the "pork life"? Listen now for a deeper connection to what's on your plate and the dedicated farmers bringing it from farm to fork.

Chefs...what is YOUR favorite meat? 

Learn more about Indiana's Farms and Production here: https://www.indianapork.org/

Thank you to the World Food Championships for connecting us!

Welcome to the show! Burnt Hands Perspective

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*The views and opinions on this show are meant for entertainment purposes only. They do not reflect the views of our sponsors. We are not here to babysit your feelings, if you are a true industry pro, you will know that what we say is meant to make you laugh and have a great time. If you don't get that, this is not the podcast for you. You've been warned. Enjoy the ride!